Your Happiness Was Hacked: Why Tech Is Winning the Battle to Control Your Brain–and How to Fight Back by Alex Salkever, Vivek Wadhwa

For anyone trying to make sense of their relationship with technology, Alex Salkever's book, “Your Happiness Was Hacked: Why Tech Is Winning the Battle to Control Your Brain–and How to Fight Back,” is invaluable. Salkever, a technology pundit and executive, provides readers with an eye-opening account of how technology is transforming our lives – and what we can do to help steer our own destiny.

The world we live in today is one teeming with technology. We are constantly connected, constantly consuming data, and constantly encouraged to remain attached to our devices. But, as Salkever elucidates, “the biggest battle being waged today is the one for control of your brain — for control over the flow of information that comes into it and for control over the choices you make because of that information.”

Salkever delves into the ancient history of man's relationship with technology and makes the argument that “the biggest battle being waged today” represents the latest iteration of a centuries-old struggle for control of our minds.

Though many of us might think that technology can empower us, Salkever argues persuasively that tech companies and their algorithms are, in fact, able to manipulate our thoughts and behavior. He explains how an entire industry has emerged to figure out how to persuade and influence people through algorithmic techniques such as “smart targeting and micro-targeting,” which can be used to craft personalized messages that appeal to our specific wants and needs.

Salkever makes the case that this problem is not just limited to tech giants like Google, Amazon, and Apple. Many online services, such as social networks and dating sites, are also learning to “hack” our behavior and, in some cases, even our psyches. He explains how companies use a variety of psychological and physiological tricks, such as A/B testing, to figure out exactly what people are looking for and how to deliver it to them more efficiently.

The good news, although daunting, is that we can fight back and put an end to this manipulative manipulation. Salkever provides readers with a sweeping overview of powerful tools, such as digital detoxes, privacy settings, and self-control, that they can use to regain control of their own destiny. He explains in vivid detail how to wisely use technology and, in doing so, find balance and true contentment.

Ultimately, Salkever lays out a plan for reclaiming our lives from technology. He argues that the key to success lies in developing the skills to resist external manipulation and in committing to making decisions that align with our own values and goals. He also stresses the importance of recognizing the pitfalls of a “connected life” and developing the courage to stand up for ourselves.

Your Happiness Was Hacked is a powerful book for anyone struggling to make sense of their lives in the digital world. Salkever provides readers with an intelligent and thought-provoking examination of the dark side of technology and provides them with the tools they need to resist its power and live a happier, more contented life.